Different methods and techniques exist in the modern educational system, and these methods are used on the same level as the traditional education. Having visited the lesson of one group, which studied not by traditional method of education, but according to Montessori Method, the analysis of this method was provided and some conclusions made in reference whether the method seems effective, or not.
Having come to the classroom, the group of children was observed, aged from two till five. It should be mentioned at once that this was unexpected as traditional education, which we have used to combines people of one age group in one class. The lessons were unusual as students were given an opportunity to do what they want, concerning the educational program. The teacher did not provide any lectures, did not taught them, it seemed that the teaches was the observer of the whole process and just in some cases directed children in the material, they have chosen themselves. Neither textbooks, nor other educational written material was used in the education. Furthermore, the group of students was busy with their own activities and there were not noticed two children busy with the same affairs. The lesson held for three hours, during which students could change their activity and become busy with the other one, according to their wishes. The notable situation was observed, when a boy of two, Tom, could not make a pyramid out of blocks. The teacher’s actions were directed not on helping the child to make that pyramid, but to help him to understand that the bigger blocks should be put in the lower part, and then smaller and smaller ones.
Analyzing the lesson, it was significant to note that the lesson held according to Montessori Method, when children of different age groups are gathered together and they are free to be occupied by the activities they want, no any tense is put on them. The main distinctive features of the lesson were the length of it (three hours, when the traditional lesson for such age group usually holds for 25-30 minutes), the children of different age groups (from two till five) were gathered in one classroom and no structured lesson was seen. The teacher did not give any new material to children, did not instruct them and did not check their home tasks – children were just given the opportunity to choose the game or activity they want from existing in the room.
Such method is rather educative and effective for the age group, introduced in the class. The main observation, which was noticed, that children were not bored and no any conflicts between children were mentioned. The occupation of children was provided according to their interests and o one was imparted by the activity, he/she did not want to be occupied. The main motto of Montessori Method is not help the child make that, but help the child to understand that and make it him/herself. Such methodology was used while the case, when Tom needed some help. The teacher’s actions were perfect, she did not help him, but explained what actions to provide in order to succeed. The effectiveness of the method is that child teaches to rely on himself and knows that no one will make anything for him.
In conclusion, having visited the lesson, with the Montessori Method implemented, the advantages of this method became understood, such the child’s occupation by favorite activities, and the education to do things individually, without waiting for someone coming and doing instead of this child. The method turned to be effective and profitable for children of different ages.